German foreign ministry spokesperson: Uganda's accusations against German ambassador are entirely baseless

German foreign ministry spokesperson: Uganda's accusations against German ambassador are entirely baseless

Uganda has suspended all military cooperation with Germany following allegations that the German ambassador to Kampala, Mathias Schauer, is engaged in subversive activities in the country. The decision was announced by the Uganda People's Defence Forces (UPDF) spokesperson, Chris Magezi, who stated that the move is in response to credible intelligence reports implicating Ambassador Schauer [1].

The suspension of defense ties marks a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions between Uganda and Germany. The UPDF accused Schauer of interfering in Uganda's internal affairs and backing groups opposed to the government ahead of the 2026 general elections. The allegations stem from a closed-door meeting in Gulu last week, where Schauer reportedly criticized the conduct of Gen Muhoozi Kainerugaba, the president's son and current UPDF chief, for his inflammatory social media posts [2].

Germany's embassy in Kampala has not publicly responded to the allegations, but the German foreign ministry spokesperson has stated that Uganda's accusations against Ambassador Schauer are entirely baseless. The spokesperson emphasized that Germany is committed to maintaining diplomatic relations and that the allegations are unfounded [3].

The suspension of defense ties threatens to unravel a years-long military partnership between Uganda and Germany. Uganda has troops in the African Union peacekeeping force in Somalia, which is partly funded by the European Union. The diplomatic rift could have implications for regional security and cooperation.

The 1961 Vienna Convention on Diplomatic Relations prohibits diplomats from interfering in the internal affairs of host nations. If the dispute intensifies, Uganda may declare Ambassador Schauer persona non grata, a step that would require Germany to recall him [2].

Ugandan opposition leader Robert Kyagulanyi, better known as Bobi Wine, has slammed the military's move, describing it as an attempt to criminalize dissent. He has accused the government of manufacturing threats to shield itself from accountability [1].

The diplomatic fallout between Uganda and Germany is likely to have broader implications for regional stability and European involvement in Africa. The situation is closely watched by international observers and could potentially impact future diplomatic relations between Uganda and other European countries.

References:
[1] https://www.theeastafrican.co.ke/tea/news/east-africa/uganda-cuts-military-ties-germany-subversive-activities-envoy-5057470
[2] https://www.monitor.co.ug/uganda/news/national/tensions-soar-as-uganda-cuts-defence-ties-with-germany-over-subversive-ambassador--5056324
[3] https://slguardian.org/uganda-cuts-defence-ties-with-germany-over-alleged-subversive-activities-by-ambassador/